The Exorcist

Book 3: Chapter 7: Murder as deterrent

Hello? Wan Lis groggy voice sounded from the phone. Are you human or ghost? Its two in the morning!

Its me, Xiao Xia.

Did something happen? Wan Li immediately snapped awake. He knew Xiao Xia was very gentle and considerate, and wouldnt disturb him in the middle of the night for no reason.

I think something might have happened to Gu Yu Fang. Im not sure, but I think its best to go take a look. Im sorry, but you know my sixth sense has always been very accurate. I

Wait for me, Ill be there right away! Dont even think about going alone! Wan Li interrupted Xiao Xias explanation and immediately put his clothes on. He got to her place in less than half an hour.

Why are you carrying a fishing rod case?

Its the bloodwood sword! Xiao Xia responded, her voice trembling slightly.

Why did you unseal it?

Ill tell you when we get back.

Fine, but you should dress a little warmer. Its cold tonight. He instructed considerately, looking at her weak expression as she put up a brave front. A mysterious tenderness suddenly arose in his heart, something he had never felt before.

Why are you looking at me so sketchily? Xiao Xia felt Wan Li was a little strange.

Im thinking of using this gaze on my female patients in the future. Do you think its charming?

Arent you most afraid of doctor-patient relationships?

Ive gotten used to them. Would you fall in love with me?

Id throw up. Xiao Xia said without meaning it. Actually, she knew Wan Li was very attractive to women. Are you here to discuss your charm in the middle of the night, or are you coming with me to check on Gu Yu Fang? After his harassment, she was no longer as afraid.

I do want to discuss my charm, but I know you want to go check on Gu Yu Fang. Wan Li restrained his emotions. Lets go.

On the way, he didnt dare ask why Xiao Xia thought something might have happened to Gu Yu Fang, afraid to make her more uneasy. But when they arrived at her luxurious apartment, he saw a single light within the pitch black building, and could determine at once that it was their destination.

However, the dutiful security guard blocked their path, unwilling to let them inside no matter what. He also wasnt willing to call upstairs to check. In the end, the glib-tongued Wan Li both threatened and cajoled the guard before he was willing to go up and take a look with them.

The wealthy apartment building was laid out with two units per floor. The moment they stepped out of the elevator, they saw the door of the apartment on the left was ajar. The light poured out almost provocatively, and they smelled a stench of blood. Although it was very faint, it was especially clear in the winter night.

At this moment, the security guard realized something was wrong and started getting nervous.

You stay here and protect the lady. Wan Li ordered him sternly.

The guard wanted nothing more than to play this relatively safe role and hurriedly nodded. He stuck next to Xiao Xia.

Wan Li slowly walked over and pushed the door open. He cautiously followed the scent of blood. The large living room was filled with fresh flowers. The scene behind them was sufficient to stun him.

A woman was leaning against the sofa. From her angle, she could see the person coming in.

She was smiling, but it wasnt a natural smile. Someone had covered her corpse grey face in thick makeup. The curved eyeliner and the lipstick smile made her appear like a clown.

Her clothes were red, but the dye was her own fresh blood. Her limbs were no longer attached, and were arranged neatly on the coffee table. There were red shoes on her feet and bracelets on her wrist.

He had thought himself very brave, and had also seen many extraordinary things. However, the weirdness of the scene creeped him out and made him take a step back.

He settled his mind and figured the murderer had already left. He decided not to mess with the crime scene and to call the cops first. However, at this time, a womans snort sounded from within the still room. The corpse suddenly fell over in front of the sofa, facing upwards. Its eyes snapped open, rolling upwards to stare at Wan Li.

Whoever you are, dont mess with me. Wan Li successfully concealed his fear. Save it. Im not afraid. He turned and left.

Go call the police. Theres been a murder. He said to the restless security guard.

The guard ran off as though he was flying.

What happened? Xiao Xia knew her dreams had already predicted this matter, but still had to ask. Was it a human seal?

Wan Li looked surprised at Xiao Xia. How did you know?

I dreamt about it an hour ago. Unfortunately the murderer wasnt seen.

Looking at Xiao Xias pale face, Wan Li suddenly hated how he didnt have Ruan Zhans abilities.

Why not go live at Ruan Zhans place? After answering the polices questions and listening to Xiao Xias account of the whole story, Wan Li made a suggestion.

I wont.

Why not? Are you angry with him?!

Im not. Xiao Xia lied. Theres no one living there and the place is so large. The emptiness will make me even more afraid.

Ill go live there with you?

Thats even worse. You think my reputation isnt bad enough? The fact that I was living with the bars owner already spread previously. Now Ill have found a new man not even two months later, and moved into my old flames house.

Youre too conservative. Its no big deal for women nowadays to live together with one or two guy friends before marriage. Wan Li joked.

If I did that, even if I died, my dad would probably follow me to the afterlife and kill me again. Its better to keep my life! Lets not talk about this. Can you help me with something?

I await your command!

I noticed you seemed pretty close with that police chief. Can you find out the direct cause of Gu Yu Fangs death for me?

What do you want to do? Wan Li frowned vigilantly. Youre just a lawyer, not a cop. Shes dead, so your obligations have also come to an end. Dont tell me you want to get involved in this matter again. I wont agree.

Its just a small, small favor. Very small, very small. Xiao Xia indicated with her fingers. Shes too pitiful!

Wan Li sighed. There are many pitiful people in this world. You wont be able to help enough of them. Xiao Xia, sometimes you must harden your heart, and learn to say no to others. Otherwise, you wont be able to survive in this society.

Just this one time. I swear, just this one time! Xiao Xia promised insincerely.

Actually, she felt a sort of guilt in her heart. She wasnt able to explain why. Perhaps it was because of Gu Yu Fangs feelings for Ruan Zhan. Although love was a two-way street and Ruan Zhan wasnt obligated to reciprocate, Xiao Xia could sense that he had left so he wouldnt have to use his abilities anymore. She was the one who forced him, so she was also partly responsible for Gu Yu Fangs loneliness and initiation into the Flower Society. She also knew Gu Yu Fang was silenced because she was revealing things about the society, and she was also responsible for that. Now that Gu Yu Fang was dead, she was obligated to seek justice for her!

Furthermore, she had also selfishly thought that if she encountered danger due to this case, Ruan Zhan would probably sense it and swiftly return.

I dont believe you! Wan Li mercilessly tore apart Xiao Xias oath.

You really wont help?

I wont!

Its no use even if I beg?

No use!

Then Ill figure it out myself. Would that do?

Fine, fine, fine. Ill help, Ill help. Dont do anything rash, you hear me? Wan Li looked at Xiao Xias smiling face in defeat. Youre taking advantage of the fact I wouldnt just ignore whatever happens to you!

I knew you were a good person! Xiao Xia patted Wan Lis arm. Go handle this matter while I investigate the Woman Flower Entertainment Citys matters at the Department of Commerce. Ill treat you to a grand meal tonight. Not waiting for Wan Li to oppose the idea, she went ahead and left first.